MERCY Malaysia Mobilises Resources To Aid Flood-Hit Communities

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- MERCY Malaysia has activated its flood response as continuous monsoon rains impact several states, with conditions expected to worsen over the coming days.

It said that rising water levels and damaged infrastructure have limited access to many affected areas, placing displaced communities - particularly children, older persons, persons with disabilities and those with chronic illnesses - at heightened risk.

“In coordination with state authorities, MERCY Malaysia is closely monitoring updates from MetMalaysia (Malaysian Meteorological Department) and NADMA (National Disaster Management Agency) while working directly with the Disaster Operations Control Centre (PKOB) and the Social Welfare Department (JKM) to conduct rapid assessments and field interventions.

“This approach ensures that critical needs are met without duplication and that all activities remain guided by humanitarian principles and the organisation’s mandate to address gaps in national disaster response mechanisms,” it said in a statement.

It added that healthcare and public health needs are being assessed at evacuation centres and hard-to-reach locations, including the provision of mobile health services, Psychological First Aid and Child-Friendly Activities, with special attention given to vulnerable groups.

MERCY Malaysia said water, sanitation and hygiene conditions, along with needs for non-food items and food security, are also being assessed to identify areas requiring further support, with particular attention given to individuals with chronic illnesses, persons with disabilities and elderly individuals who face mobility challenges.

“MERCY Malaysia is also providing women-friendly spaces and psychosocial support activities to safeguard the safety, dignity and mental well-being of affected women,” it added.

As a certified World Health Organisation (WHO) Emergency Medical Team (EMT) Type 1 Fixed, MERCY Malaysia said it operates in accordance with international humanitarian standards to ensure that all assistance is timely, impartial and responsive to community needs.

Meanwhile, its president Datuk Dr Ahmad Faizal Mohd Perdaus, in the same statement, said the humanitarian needs of affected communities are growing rapidly as the monsoon continues.

He added that MERCY Malaysia is committed to supporting coordinated response efforts with state authorities and partners, addressing critical gaps in healthcare, protection and essential services.

“Our priority is to safeguard the most vulnerable, uphold the dignity of all those affected and deliver principled assistance where it is needed most,” he said.

MERCY Malaysia continues to work closely with government agencies, humanitarian partners and civil society organisations to support flood-affected communities while contributing to national and global efforts on sustainable development and disaster resilience.

-- BERNAMA